Opting for the Convenience Package brings a direct injection 2.4-liter four-cylinder with 191 horsepower. The LX V6 adds a 3.5-liter engine with 276 horsepower, roof rails and the third-row seat. Springing for the EX brings 18-inch alloy wheels, automatic headlamps, UVO, keyless entry and start and dual-zone automatic climate control. Leather seats are also part of the admission price. Optional features include navigation with a backup camera, an Infinity audio system and a panoramic glass moonroof to add light to the vast interior. The V6 is also optional. Finally, the SX aims to be the most stylish Sorento. It gets the V6 as standard and includes body color bumpers, roof rails, an upgraded UVO system, Infinity audio and rear air conditioning.
The Dodge Journey is a similar size and also offers a third row and optional V6, as well as the excellent UConnect Touch system. But it isn't as efficient or refined as the Kia. The Toyota RAV4 is less expensive, but smaller and has a dated design. Same goes for the Mitsubishi Outlander. The Nissan Murano is much more refined but costs more and doesn't offer a third-row.
The Sorento occupies a niche between small and midsize crossovers that suits a lot of buyers well. It's more spacious than a small two-row crossover and boasts an available third-row seat that will seat children, as well as a V6. But it isn't as expensive or cumbersome as some of the larger crossovers out there. Combine that with Kia's extensive 10-year warranty and fuel-efficient powertrains, and the Sorento probably makes sense if you're in the market for a new family vehicle.